Published on
October 7, 2025
Etihad Airways has broadened its global reach with the addition of two key Southeast Asia destinations, further expanding its network to 83 cities worldwide. The airline has inaugurated services to Medan in North Sumatra, Indonesia, and Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, creating new travel and business links between Asia and the Middle East.
This expansion reflects Etihad’s ongoing strategy to enhance global connectivity, support tourism growth, and strengthen economic ties across regions. The new routes are expected to attract a diverse mix of travellers, including holidaymakers, business professionals, and investors seeking opportunities in Southeast Asia.
Exploring North Sumatra through Medan
The new flights to Medan open the door to one of Indonesia’s most captivating regions. North Sumatra is renowned for its rich natural beauty, including dense rainforests, volcanic highlands, and Lake Toba — the world’s largest volcanic lake and a UNESCO Global Geopark. Visitors to the area can enjoy adventure tourism, nature trails, and opportunities to experience the unique local wildlife.
Medan itself is a vibrant city blending historical architecture with modern urban development. Its markets, temples, and cultural heritage reflect the region’s diverse influences, while local cuisine offers a taste of authentic Sumatran flavors. Beyond tourism, Medan is a significant economic hub, making the route a vital connection for business and trade between Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
The new link ensures that international travellers can reach North Sumatra with ease, promoting both leisure travel and commercial engagement in the region.
Phnom Penh as a Gateway to Cambodia
Etihad’s new service to Phnom Penh connects travellers to one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing capitals. The flights currently operate four times per week, with plans to increase to six weekly departures from November 2025. Phnom Penh combines historical charm with modern city life, featuring riverside promenades, lively markets, and a thriving food and arts scene.
The city also provides convenient access to Cambodia’s cultural landmarks, including the world-famous temples of Angkor. With these direct flights, the city becomes more accessible to international tourists and business travellers alike, supporting Cambodia’s growing tourism industry and its emerging economic sectors.
Modern Comfort and Premium Service
Both routes are served by Etihad’s Airbus A321LR aircraft, offering state-of-the-art amenities and enhanced travel comfort. Premium passengers can enjoy private suites with fully-flat beds, dedicated concierge services, and priority ground transport, ensuring a seamless travel experience. This focus on service quality complements the airline’s efforts to expand into new destinations while maintaining its reputation for excellence.
A Global Expansion Strategy
The addition of Medan and Phnom Penh is part of a wider expansion plan, with more than 30 new routes set to be introduced across four continents. Southeast Asia will see further growth with upcoming flights to Krabi, Hanoi, Chiang Mai, and Hong Kong. The airline also plans to connect to other emerging destinations, including Damascus, Palma de Mallorca, and Zanzibar.
These strategic expansions highlight Etihad’s commitment to connecting travellers to high-demand destinations, while positioning Abu Dhabi as a central hub for international travel and commerce.
Connecting Cultures and Economies
The airline’s new Southeast Asia services underline the importance of connectivity in today’s global travel landscape. By linking Medan and Phnom Penh directly to its worldwide network, Etihad enables easier access for tourists, strengthens business connections, and fosters cultural exchange. These routes contribute to the growth of regional tourism and help build sustainable economic partnerships across continents.
As Etihad continues to expand, its network not only offers new travel opportunities but also reinforces the airline’s role in connecting people, businesses, and destinations worldwide, highlighting the transformative power of aviation.
